Title of Effective Practice: - California Postsecondary Education ...

Direct Connection to Policy Area 6 of The Illinois Commitment
Health and Wellness Center
University of St. Francis
What issue or need is addressed by the effective practice?
The primary purpose of this project is to establish and expand nursing practice arrangements in non-institutional
settings to improve access to health care in medically underserved communities. This project will strengthen the
basic and advanced nursing education programs of the University of St. Francis (USF) College of Nursing and
Allied Health (CONAH) by providing culturally-sensitive primary care to underserved populations and
identified high-risk groups. This project is interdisciplinary and will provide a site for faculty and students to
practice nursing, social work, education, business, recreation administration, and conduct health care research.
Description of the effective practice:
The Center will operate within a teaching-learning environment through key linkages to two Joliet public
schools. Objectives of this project are designed to address Healthy People 2010 objectives, and Human
Resource and Service Administration’s (HRSA) Kids into Health Careers initiative. They focus on provision of
primary health care and mental health services to medically underserved populations in adjacent neighborhoods
to the campus, targeting the low-income elderly, the uninsured and working poor, victims of domestic violence,
and low-income students at two primary schools. Services offered include: well child care and risk assessment,
acute and episodic care, chronic care management, community health and case management, mental health
services, and preventive dental services. The Center will provide interdisciplinary clinical education experiences
for all students in health, and human services programs to enhance the cultural competence and sensitivity of the
future health careers workforce.
How does this practice achieve sustainability?
The Health and Wellness Center will receive $2.1 million in federal funds to be awarded by DHHS-HRSA
Division of Nursing Grant (1 D11HP07363-01) over the next five years. Additional funding is being sought
from private donors and professional health care community organizations. Part of the long term plan for this
center’s sustainability includes income from a USF Upscale Thrift Shop operated by USF students and
community volunteers.
What are the results/measurable outcomes?
The measurable outcomes for the Health and Wellness Center include: improved, affordable healthcare for
patients and their families; provide a primary care clinical site for students and faculty to practice;
interdisciplinary collaboration of the colleges of education, arts and sciences and business; and development of a
collaboration of care model among the local hospitals, health care agencies, senior service centers, woman’s
violence shelters, public K-8 schools and other community clinics and organizations in Joliet and the
surrounding communities. These activities are congruent with the mission and Franciscan charism of respect,
integrity, compassion and service.
Contact Information
Name: Maria A. Connolly, DNSc., CNE, APRN, FCCM
Email: mconnolly@stfrancis.edu
Phone: (815) 740-3463
202